SOMERSWORTH — With Paul Blanc facing three charges of simple assault, it remains uncertain whether the former Somersworth High School math teacher will lose his teaching credentials.

The father of the girl involved is upset that Blanc’s alleged actions only amount to misdemeanors.

“I’m kind of in disbelief that it’s only a misdemeanor,” said the girl’s father, who has chosen to remain anonymous to protect his daughter’s identity. “I don’t know why that is. Maybe they have their reasons.”

The man did say the news of charges being brought against Blanc made both he and his daughter feel as if a weight had been lifted off their shoulders.

“There was a big sigh of relief, especially with my daughter,” he said.

Dr. Judith D. Fillion of the N.H. Department of Education’s Bureau of Credentialing said the bureau investigates all allegations of educator misconduct. “We do wait for the legal process to take place before recommending disciplinary action,” she said.

As Blanc has not plead or been found innocent or guilty yet, it is unknown whether the charges will have any legal effect on his future as a teacher.

Fillion handles Reports of Misconduct & Investigations at the bureau, but did not have any specific information on Blanc as the legal process against him has only just begun.

She provided the guidelines that outline suspension or revocation of credentials of certified personnel due to educator misconduct.

The guidelines state a teacher’s certification can be suspended or revoked if he is convicted of a felony that puts students in potential physical or emotional jeopardy or renders him unfit for continued certification.

It also lists denial on the ground of “misconduct or unprofessional conduct, on or off duty,” that might place students in physical or emotional jeopardy or detract from his professional standing.

Superintendent Jeni Mosca said, “As is required by law, I must inform the DOE when a situation occurs. Then it is up to the DOE to conduct their own investigation and make their decision.”